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Louwagie to Step Down as United Way CEO
United Way of Southwest Minnesota (UWSWMN) announces that CEO Meg Louwagie will be stepping down from her role effective April 30, 2026, as she transitions into a new position as Senior District Outreach Representative for Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. The UWSWMN Board of Directors will begin a transition process to support leadership continuity and initiate a search for the organization’s next CEO.
“Meg has been a passionate, steady, and deeply committed leader for United Way of Southwest Minnesota,” said Matt Suby, UWSWMN Board Chair. “Her vision, care for community, and unwavering dedication to this organization have significantly strengthened United Way’s presence and impact across southwest Minnesota.”
During her tenure, Louwagie led several key initiatives that expanded both the reach and responsiveness of UWSWMN, including the creation of the Disaster Recovery Fund, providing timely and structured support during periods of crisis; the launch of the Bright Beginnings, Brighter Futures Scholarship Program to increase access to educational opportunities; the continued growth of the annual Radio a thon, strengthening donor engagement and community connection; and the establishment of the Kindness Investment Program grants, which support local groups through small scale, community level projects. Throughout this work, her leadership consistently emphasized increasing the accessibility and visibility of United Way of Southwest Minnesota, ensuring programs, resources, and messaging reached a broader and more diverse audience while strengthening relationships with nonprofits, businesses, and community partners.
“Meg’s leadership has helped position UWSWMN as a more accessible, responsive, and community driven organization,” Suby added. “She will be greatly missed by our staff, Board members, donors, volunteers, and partners. We are deeply grateful for the foundation she has built and confident in United Way’s future.”
“It has been a true honor to serve United Way of Southwest Minnesota and to be a part of the UWSWMN legacy,” said Louwagie. “This organization, its mission, and the people behind the work have shaped me in ways that will stay with me forever. Together, we have walked this path—through challenges, growth, and moments of profound impact—and those shared experiences will always be part of who I am. I am deeply grateful for the relationships built, the trust placed in me, and the opportunity to contribute to work that genuinely changes lives and strengthens our communities.”
Additional information regarding leadership transition plans and the CEO search process will be shared as it becomes available.
For more information about the work of your local United Way, please visit UnitedWaySWMN.org.